Theater Education & Youth Programs at The Playhouse
About us
The Playhouse Children’s Theater was established in 1994, and for three decades it has remained a vibrant space where children and teens learn, grow, and discover their creative voices.
Last year alone, 50 children participated in our acting and production sessions. Students may begin at age 5, and many study for several years. Some go on to perform professionally or start theater companies and youth programs of their own.
A Perfect sized theater
Over 30 years, The Playhouse Children’s Theater has presented 77 plays — including five world premieres — along with talent shows, improv showcases, puppet theater, and musical events. We are proud to be the only theater in our region fully dedicated to the education and training of young people.
Our theater is the perfect scale for students to learn stage performance. The Playhouse features a full stage with curtains and lighting, backstage space, a green room, dressing rooms, and a make-up area — everything young actors need to experience the process of live theater.
backstage preparation
Creative acting sessions
These sessions are fast-paced, fun, and highly interactive. Students create stories, build dramatic action, explore character creation, and develop a sense of humor through improvisation. The basic language of theater is introduced, and sessions remain spontaneous and fluid. Collaboration is encouraged while still making room for strong individual expression.
stagecraft & production sessions
Stagecraft sessions deepen students’ learning by placing them directly into the production process. Participants are cast in roles that match their abilities while also challenging their creativity. Students in these sessions become members of
The Playhouse Children’s Theater Company.
As children grow into adolescence, The Playhouse selects plays and activities suited to their maturity and reflective of the teenage experience. At this level, students explore material more deeply and learn the inner workings of running a small theater company.
The Teen Theater Company is composed of students who have performed together in multiple productions. They continue to strengthen their acting skills while gaining experience in all aspects of theater operations.
creative producing sessions
In these sessions, students workshop their personal creative ideas with Mary Weaver, developing them into concepts for potential staged events.
Teen interns are also given opportunities to assist with productions throughout the year — both youth and adult. Students demonstrating a desire to pursue theater professionally receive production responsibilities, supporting backstage work, rehearsal direction, house management, and stage management.
JOIN us backstage at THE PLAYHOUSE!
Contact us to find out more
Why Theater Education at the playhouse Matters to young artists
We believe the most significant outcome of our programs is the development of strong self-esteem and a deeper awareness of others. Through theater, children learn to speak confidently, express themselves clearly, and work collaboratively in group settings.
Even for those who do not pursue theater professionally, the experience provides lasting personal benefits — communication skills, creativity, leadership, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
For 32 years, The Playhouse has offered a place where young people can explore, take risks, and find their voice.
Your support helps ensure this work continues and keeps arts education alive.
help us to keep the curtain rising at the theater!
